No matter how hard I try to keep spending under control at this time of year it always gets a little out of hand.
This year I started early and had good intentions of buying only locally made goods, home based products and carefully selected gifts from local stores. I wanted to buy environmentally friendly items and fair trade goods instead of mass produced objects. I tried to set aside and use cash only but somehow plans went astray and the credit cards slid through the machines a few times too many.
I did start strong shopping at local stores and community markets. The most beautiful gifts I bought were pieces of pottery, jewelry and knitting all made by artists living within 100 kilometres of my home. My other favourites are CDs of the music and storytelling recorded by prairie people.
I wanted to support the local economy and show my appreciation for the quality of creativity close to home, but in the last few days I've found myself running through malls buying the last of my gifts and I haven't even checked the tags or boxes for their country of origin.
Life gets a little overwhelming sometimes and as I try to remember the most special gifts I have received and given over the years they haven't been the ones with the biggest price tags. I have always enjoyed the gadgets and pretty things, but simpler things have given me more pleasure.
This has been a season of loss for my family and as we have completed our daily tasks around town and throughout the province I have accepted simple kindnesses as the most precious gifts this season. Kind words, a touch on the arm and a smile have greeted me in unexpected places and I am grateful.
My mother wasn't one to insist on sending 'thank you' notes and it wasn't a habit I ever developed, but I feel I should send notes to some of the businesses in the area thanking them for making the days a little brighter.
I know this season can be busy and tiring and sometimes it is hard to smile through the crowds and activity but it can make a huge difference to someone who needs the warmth of another's kindness even more than a great deal on a new Blu-ray player or bunnyhug.
I learn more about goodness and generosity every year and I feel so lucky to know Saskatchewan is my home during the holidays and all year through.
